Hydroponics Daily

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses the potential of ornamental hydroponics and spotlights Iris tectorum (the roof iris) as an ideal species for indoor soilless cultivation due to its tolerance of low nutrients, stress, and inert media.

The episode covers the plant’s historical roof cultivation in Asia and Europe, its bioactive compounds of pharmaceutical interest, and practical ideas like using reed thatch as a growing medium, urging growers to explore ornamentals as a niche in hydroponics.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp tests unconventional, nutrient-free grow media for microgreens—hemp and microgreens matting, cardboard and coarse sawdust—comparing results for chia and onion in a hydroponic setup.

The episode covers the trial design, potential issues (mould, decomposition, nutrient deficiencies, wood toxins) and invites listener feedback as the team observes outcomes.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

This episode reports Gavita’s management buyout following Miracle‑Gro/Hawthorne’s divestment of its hydroponics businesses and what that could mean for the industry.

Also included: a production update from Eutrema on a solvent‑free, highly concentrated 12.5% indole‑butyric acid auxin solution, chitosan biofungicide shipments, and planned jasmonic acid products, with trial samples available.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp records a short episode to ask listeners to take a quick Instagram poll about what they know regarding auxin sprays, gels, and solutions.

He teases upcoming episodes with deeper explanations of auxin uses and more insights from the congress, including a look at what a "gigafarm" is.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/lime-sulphur/

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/Dr. Russell Sharp reports from the World Congress for Vertical Farming after visiting Growy. He focuses on labeling, packaging, shelf life, and why customers prioritize "pesticide-free" and "no need to wash" over the word "hydroponic."

The episode also explores supermarket placement, packaging visibility, and how distribution and branding often matter more than technology when it comes to market success.

Dr. Russell Sharp explains practical ways to inspect hydroponic plants up close, from inexpensive hand lenses and phone macro attachments to investing in a stereomicroscope. He contrasts stereomicroscopes with compound microscopes and shares buying tips like LED illumination, stable stands, and camera attachments.

The episode covers how to spot pests and disease early, examine trichomes and flowers, check beneficial nematodes under a compound microscope, and use microscopes for documentation and customer engagement. Practical tips include starting at low magnification, keeping samples flat, and watching tutorials before use.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/equipment/hand-lens-uv-led-illuminated/

Dr. Russell Sharp recounts reintroducing extinct tomato varieties like the Blaby Special and Manx Marvel, then examines the relative value of preserving heritage cultivars versus conserving whole wild species and their genetic diversity.

He argues that wild species and ancestral strains often hold more crucial genetic value for future breeding and that species-level conservation should be prioritised, while inviting listener feedback and pointing to Eutrema Ltd for hydroponics resources.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp experiments with growing carnivorous plants hydroponically—Venus flytraps, sundews, and pitcher plants. He discusses challenges like their need for nutrient-poor acidic conditions, winter dormancy, pests, and the plan to use RO water, very low nutrient solutions, peat-free media, and NFT/DWC systems, promising updates as he learns.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp reports from Fruit Attraction in Madrid, sharing key hydroponics and fresh-produce industry discoveries from the trade show.

Main takeaways: large distributors dominated the show with impressive stands, biostimulant firms remain small, and a noticeable presence of vegan and microbial fertiliser companies. Hydroponic systems and lighting were scarce compared to field-grown fruit technology.

Other notes include concerns about plastic-coated granular fertilisers and cobalt-containing products, interesting innovations such as microalgae biostimulants and a handheld fruit-ripeness scanner, and the underrepresentation of UK exhibitors.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp investigates why West Virginia seems to have low interest in hydroponics, examining factors like GDP, geography, cannabis laws, and local market access.

The episode highlights existing efforts — NASA-funded programs at West Virginia University, community college courses, Mocks Farm, and Blue Acre Aquaponics — and discusses grants, production methods, and opportunities for local growth.

https://eutrema.co.uk/claim-your-free-turf-brochure/